Data retrieval from library systems based upon the open systems model

This article describes an important advantage of relational, SQL-compliant databases: that they enable a library to employ standard report building software to retrieve data from multiple data sources. The ability of a library's integrated library system and other major systems to support this type of data retrieval is of critical importance. Two SQL reporting tools, Cognos Impromptu and Seagate Crystal Reports, are briefly reviewed.Cornish, A. (2001). Data Retrieval from Library Systems based upon the Open Systems Model. (Preprint). Information Technology and Libraries, 20(2)